Yoghurt and cucumber raita

Raita is a creamy yoghurt-based sauce with spices, herbs, and added texture from finely chopped vegetables like cucumber and green onions. The smooth, fermented freshness of the yoghurt sets a delicate main tone, while garlic and onion can add a hint of bite to the sauce. Raita can be a bit sweet, with sugar or honey sometimes added. Finally, spices and herbs like caraway and mint give the sauce layers of earthy and green notes. You can also add coriander.

Tzatziki is raita’s Greek cousin. Both are yoghurt-based and served as side dishes or dips to add freshness and texture to a main dish. One difference is in the texture of the two sauces. While tzatziki is made with thick Greek yoghurt, raita is often a bit runnier. Raita is also a more versatile sauce with a wide variety of flavours and textures, while tzatziki is less open to interpretation.

Raita can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. The best way to freeze the sauce is in sealable freezer bags. Lay the bags on a tray in the freezer until frozen through, then remove the tray and store the raita until it’s time to defrost it. After defrosting, the yoghurt may be a bit separated. Not to worry: stir until properly combined and serve with a fabulous curry.